Former ambassador Amar Belani has criticized the current U.S. approach to the Western Sahara conflict, which prioritizes the Moroccan autonomy plan. Belani argues that the Sahrawi people will not accept any outcome predetermined by external pressure. He reaffirms that the Polisario Front remains the sole legitimate representative of the Sahrawi people under UN recognition, warning that any attempt to bypass or coerce them would threaten long-term stability. With a key UN Security Council resolution expected in October 2026, Belani cautions that forcing a specific outcome would hollow out the political process. He further emphasizes the essential role of MINURSO in monitoring tensions and stresses that a fair, durable solution must preserve the multilateral framework and respect the right to self-determination.